Howley launches scathing attack on Hore

"I am sure it won't be taken too lightly."

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Wales assistant coach Rob Howley has launched a stinging attack on Andrew Hore, slamming the All Blacks hooker's challenge on lock Bradley Davies as a ''disgrace''.

Davies was hospitalised after being struck from behind by a swinging arm from Hore early in New Zealand's 33-10 victory at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff on Sunday morning (NZT).

Howley was fronting the media in Cardiff today as the Welsh prepare to play Australia this weekend.

With Hore having been officially cited and due to front an IRB judiciary, Howley didn't hold back.

"What Hore did has got no place on a rugby field, as far as I am concerned," Howley said.

"It was an absolute disgrace. He has been cited, and I am sure it won't be taken too lightly. Situations and incidents like that have no place on the rugby field, and it had a huge impact on the game."

"You don't traditionally think the All Blacks want to do things like that. They are a good enough team not to so we were very surprised by the actions of the player.

"Bradley has severe concussion and cannot play this weekend. It was pretty obvious that something untoward had happened.

Howley added: ''I am sure if he (referee Craig Joubert) had seen it, action would have been taken. Whether you are licensed to go to the TMO on such decisions, I think that is for the IRB (International Rugby Board) to recommend.''

"Whether the referee should be able to go to the TMO in those situations is something for the IRB to decide."